Freshers, Freebies and Discounts for One Day Only!
If you’re a student in Manchester, cancel your plans for Thursday 25th September from 12-7pm (sorry, lecture). The MCR Student Social is back and it’s basically your golden ticket to a full day of exclusive student discounts, freebies and entertainment across the city centre.
We’re talking up to 50% off at over 130 shops, restaurants and leisure venues! From fashion to beauty to food, fun and even practical savings (yes, laser hair removal counts as practical), this is the event that’ll stretch your student loan further than you thought possible. Add in free food samples, games, giveaways and a few DJs thrown in for good measure and you’ve got the best study break of the year.
The Entertainment
Because shopping is always better with a soundtrack (and snacks), the Arndale is turning into one big party. Exchange Court will host a Silent Disco, with the Super Star MCs keeping the energy high through shout-outs, dance-offs and plenty of giveaways. Keep an eye out for the Party Tuk Tuk roaming the mall too!
There’s also the chance to sit for a special portrait from the Arndale’s resident illustrator, who’ll be set up outside Lego on the lower mall. Perfect for decorating your new student digs with something a bit more personal.
Over on Market Street and Exchange Square, the Food & Drink Zones will be serving up bites from Barburrito, Creams, Franco Manca, Popeyes, Papa Johns and Tango. You’ll also find The Mancs DJ Truck parked on Market Street, blasting hip-hop, funk and party anthems courtesy of student DJs from dBs Institute. And if that wasn’t enough, expect even more games, prizes and freebies from brands like Hollister, Urban Playground, Søstrene Grene, PureGym and Fusion.
The Discounts (aka the main event)
Alright, let’s be real – the exclusive student discounts are the real reason you’ll “accidentally” miss your 2pm seminar. And for good reason!
Sporty favourites like JD, Footasylum, Size?, Footlocker and more are rolling out extra savings, making it the perfect time to upgrade your trainers. If beauty’s more your vibe, Sephora and Space NK are offering deals on everything from cult skincare to night-out makeup essentials. Plus, fashion favourites like AllSaints, Adidas, The North Face, Nike, Mango, Victoria’s Secret, Barbour and more are all in on the action too, with serious savings across the board.
And it’s not just about clothes and beauty hauls. Food spots including Archie’s, HOP Vietnamese, King Pins and Immersive Gamebox are serving up discounts too, so you can eat, play and save all at once.
If your budget’s already taken a Freshers’ Week hit, don’t worry – there’ll be plenty of freebies, samples and giveaways to fill your bag (top tip: bring a tote).
The Essentials
📍 Location: Manchester Arndale + Manchester City Centre
🗓️ Date: Thursday 25th September
🕛 Time: 12pm–7pm
🌐 More info: MCRStudentSocial.com
Grab a leaflet on the day inside Manchester Arndale for the full list of discounts and offers. T&Cs apply.
